Method and apparatus for joining hollow organ sections in anastomosis

ABSTRACT

An apparatus is operable to provide an anastomosis coupling two hollow organs, such as a duodenum and ileum. The apparatus includes a first component that is inserted through an enterotomy in a first hollow organ and a second component that is inserted through an enterotomy in a second hollow organ. The first and second components are brought together to o align the enterotomies and compress apposed layers of tissue adjacent to the enterotomies. The compressed tissue eventually necroses and the apparatus may be removed or simply pass through the hollow organ. Each component may include a set of pivoting links and a resilient member that is configured to both bias the links to an expanded configuration and grip the tissue adjacent to the enterotomy. The components may include magnets that secure the positioning of the components relative to each other and provide a compressive force on the apposed tissue.

PRIORITY

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent App. No. 61/812,469, entitled “Anastomosis Devices and Methods (Project Viking),” filed Apr. 16, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

In some instances, it may be desirable to provide a side-to-side anastomosis between two naturally occurring lumens within a patient's body. By way of example only, it may be desirable to provide an anastomosis between two portions of a patient's gastrointestinal tract, such as between the patient's duodenum and the patient's ileum. In some patients, it may improve glucose control, serve as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, and/or provide other results when the jejunum is diverted by an anastomosis. In such a procedure, a first enterotomy may be formed in the sidewall of the duodenum while a second enterotomy is formed in the sidewall of the ileum. The sidewalls may then be placed adjacent to each other to provide fluid communication through the first and second enterotomies, enabling at least some chyme to pass through the first and second enterotomies to travel from the duodenum to the ileum without passing through the jejunum.

One or more devices may be positioned within the first and second enterotomies to hold the sidewalls of the duodenum and ileum together, thereby holding the first and second openings in alignment with each other and maintaining patency through the openings. The device or devices may compress the tissue, which may ultimately result in a serosa-to-serosa adhesion that secures the duodenum sidewall to the ileum sidewall. In addition, tissue captured in the device or devices may eventually necrose, such that the device or devices is/are eventually released into the gastrointestinal tract and subsequently passed through the bowels. Traditional examples of anastomosis devices include Denan's rings and the Murphy button. Examples of anastomosis procedures and associated devices are taught in U.S. Provisional Patent App. No. 61/697,845, entitled “Magnetic Compression Anastomosis Device,” filed Sep. 7, 2012, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

While a variety of anastomosis devices have been made and used, it is believed that no one prior to the inventor(s) has made or used an invention as described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims which particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, it is believed the present invention will be better understood from the following description of certain examples taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals identify the same elements and in which:

FIG. 1 depicts a diagrammatic view of a portion of a patient's digestive system, showing an anastomosis in the small intestines to divert chyme from the patient's jejunum;

FIG. 2 depicts a partial perspective view of another exemplary anastomosis to divert chyme from the patient's jejunum;

FIG. 3A depicts a perspective view of an exemplary anastomosis compression device, in an expanded state;

FIG. 3B depicts a perspective view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A, in a partially compressed state;

FIG. 3C depicts a perspective view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A, in a compressed state;

FIG. 4 depicts a side elevational view of the distal end of an exemplary instrument operable to apply the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 5A depicts a perspective view of the instrument of FIG. 4 engaged with the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A, with an arm of the instrument in an extended position;

FIG. 5B depicts a perspective view of the instrument of FIG. 4 engaged with the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A, with an arm of the instrument in a retracted position;

FIG. 6A depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during an anastomosis procedure, with an instrument approaching the patient's duodenum to form an opening;

FIG. 6B depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with the opening formed in the patient's duodenum;

FIG. 6C depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with an opening formed in the patient's ileum;

FIG. 6D depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with the instrument of FIG. 4 and the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A approaching the opening in the patient's duodenum;

FIG. 6E depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A being inserted in the opening in the patient's duodenum;

FIG. 6F depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A fully inserted in the opening in the patient's duodenum;

FIG. 6G depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with a retention feature of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A being positioned outside the opening in the patient's duodenum;

FIG. 6H depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A being released to expand within the patient's duodenum;

FIG. 6I depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A in the expanded configuration within the patient's duodenum;

FIG. 6J depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with the instrument of FIG. 4 and the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A approaching the opening in the patient's ileum;

FIG. 6K depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A fully inserted in the opening in the patient's ileum;

FIG. 6L depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A being released to expand within the patient's ileum;

FIG. 6M depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 3A in the expanded configuration within the patient's ileum;

FIG. 6N depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with the anastomosis compression devices being urged toward each other to thereby urge the duodenum and the ileum toward each other;

FIG. 6O depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with the anastomosis compression devices holding the openings in the duodenum and ileum together to form an anastomosis;

FIG. 6P depicts a perspective view of a patient's digestive system during the anastomosis procedure of FIG. 6A, with portions of tissue omitted to show the anastomosis compression devices in position to hold the openings in the duodenum and ileum together to form an anastomosis;

FIG. 7A depicts a cross-sectional view of a pair of the anastomosis compression devices of FIG. 3A opposingly positioned in a patient's duodenum and ileum, with live tissue positioned between opposing surfaces of the anastomosis compression devices;

FIG. 7B depicts a cross-sectional view of a pair of the anastomosis compression devices of FIG. 3A opposingly positioned in a patient's duodenum and ileum, with the tissue positioned between opposing surfaces of the anastomosis compression devices in a state of necrosis;

FIG. 7C depicts a cross-sectional view of a pair of the anastomosis compression devices of FIG. 3A, with the anastomosis compression devices beginning to leave the anastomosis formed between the patient's duodenum and ileum;

FIG. 7D depicts a cross-sectional view of a pair of the anastomosis compression devices of FIG. 3A, with the anastomosis compression devices passing into the patient's ileum;

FIG. 7E depicts a cross-sectional view of a pair of the anastomosis compression devices of FIG. 3A, with the anastomosis compression devices having passed through the patient's ileum, leaving behind a secure anastomosis;

FIG. 8 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary alternative anastomosis compression device, in a compressed state;

FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of a resilient member of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 depicts a top plan view of the resilient member of FIG. 9

FIG. 11 depicts a cross-sectional view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 8, taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 8, with the resilient member in a first position;

FIG. 12 depicts a cross-sectional view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 8, taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 8, with the resilient member in a second position;

FIG. 13 depicts a side elevational view of the distal end of an exemplary alternative instrument operable to apply the anastomosis compression devices of FIG. 3A and FIG. 8;

FIG. 14 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary resilient feature of the instrument of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary alternative anastomosis compression device;

FIG. 16 depicts a top plan view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 depicts an exploded perspective view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 depicts a perspective view of the bottom side of a first subassembly of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 15;

FIG. 19 depicts a perspective view of the top side of a second subassembly of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 15;

FIG. 20A depicts a side elevational view of the first subassembly of FIG. 18, with a retracting member in an extended position;

FIG. 20B depicts a side elevational view of the first subassembly of FIG. 18, with the retracting member in a retracted position;

FIG. 21A depicts a side cross-sectional view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 15, with the first subassembly positioned in a patient's duodenum and the second subassembly positioned in the patient's ileum, and with the first subassembly separated from the second subassembly;

FIG. 21B depicts a side cross-sectional view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 15, with the first subassembly coupled with the second subassembly to secure the patient's duodenum and ileum in relation to each other, and with the retracting member of the first subassembly in the extended position;

FIG. 21C depicts a side cross-sectional view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 15, with the first subassembly coupled with the second subassembly, and with the retracting member of the first subassembly in the retracted position to compress regions of the patient's duodenum and ileum together at an anastomosis;

FIG. 22 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary alternative anastomosis compression device;

FIG. 23 depicts an exploded perspective view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 depicts a top plan view of a male member of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 22;

FIG. 25 depicts a top plan view of a female member of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 22;

FIG. 26 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 22, with the male and female members secured together to compress regions of a patient's duodenum and ileum together at an anastomosis;

FIG. 27 depicts a perspective view of another exemplary alternative anastomosis compression device;

FIG. 28 depicts a top plan view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 27; and

FIG. 29 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the anastomosis compression device of FIG. 27, taken along line 29-29 of FIG. 28.

The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it is contemplated that various embodiments of the invention may be carried out in a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily depicted in the drawings. The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification illustrate several aspects of the present invention, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention; it being understood, however, that this invention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of certain examples of the invention should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is by way of illustration, one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of other different and obvious aspects, all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

I. Exemplary Intestinal Anastomosis

As noted above, it may be desirable to provide an anastomosis between two naturally occurring lumens within a patient's body, such as within the patient's gastrointestinal tract. FIG. 1 shows an example of an anastomosis (2) formed between a proximal portion of a patient's jejunum (4) and the patient's ileum (6). The anastomosis (2) is located just distal to the duodenojujenal flexure (8). The anastomosis (2) provides a path for fluid communication from the proximal portion of a patient's jejunum (4) directly to the ileum (6), thereby providing a bypass of the majority of the jejunum (4). In particular, chyme that exits the stomach (10) may flow directly through the duodenum (12), then through just the proximal portion of the jejunum (4) and directly to the ileum (6) via the anastomosis (2), without passing through the majority of the jejunum (4). In some instances, a portion of the chyme that exits the stomach (10) flows directly from the proximal portion of the jejunum (4) to the ileum (6) via the anastomosis (2); while another portion passes the anastomosis (2) and flows through the remainder of the jejunum (4). Thus, anastomosis (2) may form a complete diversion of chyme or a partial diversion of chyme.

It should be understood that it may be necessary to create at least two enterotomies in order to provide an anastomosis (2)—one opening for the upstream region of the lumen and another opening for the downstream region of the lumen. The tissue surrounding the two enterotomies may be secured together with the enterotomies in alignment in order to provide the anastomosis (2). Once these openings are aligned at the site of the anastomosis (2), a device may be used to compress and hold the tissue together to maintain alignment of the enterotomies forming the anastomosis (2). Holding the tissue together may promote serosa-to-serosa adhesion, such that the serosa that is apposed at the anastomosis (2) eventually bonds together and thereby maintains structural integrity of the anastomosis (2) without the need for assistance by a surgically introduced device. In some instances, it may be necessary to create one or more additional enterotomies in the gastrointestinal tract in order to surgically introduce a device that compresses the tissue together to maintain alignment of the openings forming the anastomosis (2). These additional enterotomies may need to be closed (e.g., using suture, etc.) after the anastomosis compression device has been introduced to the site of the anastomosis (2). The creation and subsequent closure of these additional access enterotomies may impose additional time, cost, and/or risk in the surgical procedure.

The following disclosure includes examples of anastomosis compression devices that may be used to compress and hold the tissue together to maintain alignment and patency of the openings forming the anastomosis (2). It should be understood that each of these devices may be introduced into the lumens of the jejunum and ileum via the same enterotomies that will eventually form the anastomosis (2). In other words, it is not necessary to create (and subsequently close) any additional enterotomies in order to position the below described devices at the site of the anastomosis (2). It should also be understood that the devices described below are configured to maintain their positions at the anastomosis (2) without requiring the devices to be sutured in place. The devices include one device portion that is placed in one part of the gastrointestinal tract and another device portion that is placed in another part of the gastrointestinal tract. These device portions are biased toward each other (e.g., by a resilient member, by magnetic forces, etc.) and thereby compress tissue between opposing surfaces of the device portions. The compression provides a fluid-tight seal at the anastomosis (2), preventing chyme, etc. from leaking at the anastomosis (2). The edges of the opposing device surfaces that contact tissue are rounded or chamfered to prevent the device portions from cutting through the tissue of the gastrointestinal tract. The compressed tissue eventually necroses due to ischemia, such that the device portions and necrosed tissue eventually leave the anastomosis (2) and pass through the gastrointestinal tract.

While FIG. 1 shows the anastomosis (2) positioned just distal to the duodenojujenal flexure (8) and coupling the proximal portion of the jejunum (4) with the ileum (6), it should be understood that an anastomosis (2) may be positioned at various other suitable locations within the gastrointestinal tract. For instance, an anastomosis (2) may be located proximal to the duodenojujenal flexure (8), thus directly coupling the duodenum (12) with the ileum (6) and bypassing the entire length of the jejunum (4) as shown in FIG. 2. As another merely illustrative example, an anastomosis (2) may provide a direct coupling between the stomach (10) and jejunum (4), thereby providing a bypass of the duodenum (12); or between the esophagus and stomach (10) to re-connect the tract after removing a portion of the esophagus; or between the colon and rectum after removing a portion of the colon due to a lesion, etc. Other suitable locations for an anastomosis (2) within the gastrointestinal tract will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. It should also be understood that an anastomosis (2) may be located elsewhere in a patient's body; and that an anastomosis need not necessarily be located within the patient's gastrointestinal tract. It is contemplated that the exemplary anastomosis compression devices described below (and variations thereof) may be used in various locations throughout a patient's body, not just the gastrointestinal tract.

II. Exemplary Folding Anastomosis Compression Device

A. Structural Features of Exemplary Folding Anastomosis Compression Device

FIGS. 3A-3C show an exemplary folding anastomosis compression device (100). Device (100) of the present example comprises a first end member (110), a second end member (120), a set of links (112, 114, 122, 124), and a resilient member (130). A first magnet (118) is disposed in first end member (110) while a second magnet (128) is disposed in second end member (120). Links (112, 114) are pivotally coupled with first end member (110) by pins (140). Similarly, links (122, 124) are pivotally coupled with second end member (120) by pins (140). Link (112) is coupled with link (122) by a pin (140); while link (114) is coupled with link (124) by a pin (140). It should be understood that the pivotal couplings provided by pins (140) enable links (112, 114, 122, 124) to pivot, thereby enabling device (100) to transition between an expanded configuration (FIG. 3A), to a partially compressed or collapsed configuration (FIG. 3B), and further to a fully compressed or collapsed configuration (FIG. 3C). When device (100) is in the expanded configuration, links (112, 114, 122, 124) define a diamond-shaped opening. In the present example, device (100) is configured such that device (100) may fit through a conventional trocar (e.g., a 12 mm trocar) when device (100) is in the compressed state. Various suitable dimensions and other structural configurations that may be used for device (100) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Resilient member (130) of the present example comprises a wire formed of resilient material. By way of example only, resilient member (130) may be formed of nitinol and/or any other suitable material(s). Resilient member (130) defines a first arm (132) having a first tip region (134), a second arm (136) having a second tip region (138), and a bend (139) separating first arm (132) from second arm (136). First tip region (134) and the remainder of first arm (132) together define an angle of approximately 90°, such that first tip region (134) extends transversely from first arm (132). First tip region (134) is secured to link (112). Second tip region (138) and the remainder of second arm (136) together define an angle of approximately 90°, such that second tip region (138) extends transversely from second arm (136). Second tip region (138) is secured to link (114). Bend (139) is configured such that arms (132, 136) together define an angle of approximately 45° when device (100) is in the expanded configuration. Of course, the various regions of resilient member (130) may define any other suitable angles.

Resilient member (130) is configured to resiliently bias device (100) to the expanded configuration. In particular, tip regions (134, 138) bear outwardly on their associated links (112, 114). In some versions, resilient member (130) is resiliently biased to assume a straight configuration where arms (132, 136) would together define an angle of approximately 180°. Thus, resilient member (130) may remain stressed when device (100) is in the expanded configuration. In some other versions, resilient member (130) is resiliently biased to assume a configuration where arms (132, 136) would together define an obtuse angle, an angle of approximately 90°, or an acute angle. It should be understood that, as links (112, 114) are resiliently biased outwardly by tip regions (134, 138) bearing directly on links (112, 114), links (112, 114) will also drive links (122, 124) outwardly due to the coupling via pins (140). Resilient member (130) will thus indirectly drive links (122, 124) outwardly via links (112, 114). As will be described in greater detail below, resilient member (130) may be engaged by an applier instrument (200), which may hold device (100) in a compressed configuration while device (100) is being applied at an anastomosis site.

In some versions, one or more torsion springs are used to resiliently bias device (100) to the expanded configuration, in addition to or as an alternative to resilient member (130) biasing device (100) to the expanded configuration. By way of example only, a torsion spring may be positioned in first end member (110) to resiliently bear outwardly on links (112, 114) (e.g., via arms that extend to the inner regions of links (112, 114), etc.). In addition or in the alternative, a torsion spring may be positioned in second end member (120) to resiliently bear outwardly on links (122, 124) (e.g., via arms that extend to the inner regions of links (122, 124), etc.). Other suitable ways in which device (100) may be resiliently biased will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Resilient member (130) of the present example is also configured to flex at the bend separating first tip region (134) from the remainder of first arm (132); and at the bend separating second tip region (138) from the remainder of second arm (136). However, resilient member (130) is configured to bias arms (132, 136) such that bend (139) is biased toward first end member (110). In other words, resilient member (130) is biased toward a position where arms (132, 136) are oriented generally parallel with links (112, 114, 122, 124) as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. The flexibility of resilient member (130) at the bend separating first tip region (134) from the remainder of first arm (132), and at the bend separating second tip region (138) from the remainder of second arm (136), enables bend (139) and arms (132, 136) to be deflected away from links (112, 114). Such deflection may facilitate coupling of resilient member (130) with an applier instrument (200) as will be described in greater detail below. Such deflection may also facilitate coupling of resilient member (130) with tissue adjacent to an enterotomy as will also be described in greater detail below.

It should be understood from the foregoing that resilient member (130) is configured to provide a resilient bias along at least two different paths. One such path is along a plane that is parallel to a plane defined by the upper surfaces of links (112, 114, 122, 124). This bias urges device (100) to the expanded configuration. Put another way, the path of this bias is along the path traveled by links (112, 114, 122, 124) during the transition between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration. The other path of resilient bias is along a plane that is perpendicular to the plane defined by the upper surfaces of links (112, 114, 122, 124). This bias urges resilient member (130) to a position where bend (139) and arms (132, 136) are oriented along a plane that is substantially parallel to a plane defined by the upper surfaces of links (112, 114, 122, 124). Put another way, the path of this bias is perpendicular to the path traveled by links (112, 114, 122, 124) during the transition between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration. In some other versions, more than one resilient member (130) is used to provide the biases along these different paths.

While resilient member (130) is configured to facilitate coupling of resilient member (130) with tissue adjacent to an enterotomy in the present example, various other kinds of features may facilitate such coupling in addition to or as an alternative to resilient member (130) facilitating such coupling. By way of example only, spikes, other projections, meshes, wire bristles, snap rings, suture purse strings, adhesives, and/or various other features may be provided to facilitate coupling of resilient member (130) with tissue adjacent to an enterotomy.

While device (100) only has one resilient member (130) in the present example, it should be understood that device (100) may have more than one resilient member (130). By way of example only, a second resilient member (130) may be secured to links (122, 124). Such a second resilient member (130) may be configured and positioned as a mirror image of resilient member (130) described above, and may thus provide the same kind of operability as resilient member (130) described above. Still other suitable configurations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

B. Exemplary Applier Instrument for Folding Anastomosis Compression Device

FIGS. 4-5B show an exemplary instrument (200) that may be used to apply device (100) to an anastomosis site. Instrument (200) of the present example comprises an outer sheath (210) and an inner member (220). Outer sheath (210) has an angled distal end (212) that defines an opening (214). Inner member (220) is slidably disposed in outer sheath (210). Inner member (220) has a distal end (222) that is configured to selectively extend from or retract from opening (214) as inner member (220) is translated relative to sheath (210). Distal end (222) includes a proximally projecting hook member (224) that is configured to engage bend (139) of resilient member (130). The tip (226) of distal end (222) is rounded such that tip (226) is atraumatic in the present example.

As best seen in FIG. 5A, hook member (224) is configured to engage bend (139) of resilient member (130) when inner member (220) is advanced to a distal position where distal end (222) extends from opening (214). When inner member (220) is thereafter retracted relative to outer sheath (210), hook member (224) draws bend (139) and adjacent portions of arms (132, 136) into opening (214), such that bend (139) and adjacent portions of arms (132, 136) are disposed in the interior of sheath (210) as shown in FIG. 5B. The inner sidewalls of sheath (210) that define opening (214) contact arms (132, 136) and prevent arms (132, 136) from pivoting outwardly. Sheath (210) and inner member (220) thus cooperate to hold device (100) in the compressed configuration while inner member (220) is in a retracted position. As will be described in greater detail below, this positioning may be maintained until device (100) is suitably positioned within a bodily lumen (e.g., duodenum, jejunum, ileum, etc.), at which point inner member (220) may be advanced distally relative to sheath (210) to release device (100) at the anastomosis site.

In some exemplary uses, device (100) is first held in the compressed configuration by an operator's hand, by a grasping instrument, or in some other fashion. While device (100) is being so held in the compressed configuration, hook member (224) is moved into position where hook member (224) engages bend (139) as shown in FIG. 5A. Inner member (220) may then be retracted relative to sheath (210), before or after the operator releases their grip on device (100) with their hand, grasping instrument, etc., to the position shown in FIG. 5B. In some other exemplary uses, device (100) is in the expanded configuration when hook member (224) is moved into position to engage bend (139). Once hook member (224) is engaged with bend (139) while device (100) is in the expanded configuration, inner member (220) is retracted relative to outer sheath (210) to the position shown in FIG. 5B. During this retraction, the inner sidewalls of sheath (210) that define opening (214) contact arms (132, 136) and drive arms (132, 136) inwardly, thereby transitioning device (100) from the expanded configuration to the compressed configuration. It should therefore be understood that the operator may use instrument (200) to transition device (100) from the expanded configuration to the compressed configuration and/or some other technique to transition device (100) from the expanded configuration to the compressed configuration.

Various suitable features that may be used to provide selective advancement and retraction of inner member (220) relative to outer sheath (210) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. It should also be understood that inner member (220) may be resiliently biased relative to outer sheath (210). For instance, inner member (220) may be resiliently biased to proximally retract distal end (222) within outer sheath (210).

C. Exemplary Procedure for Creating an Anastomosis with Folding Anastomosis Compression Device

FIGS. 6A-6P show an exemplary procedure in which device (100) and instrument (200) are used in the creation of an anastomosis. In particular, FIG. 6A shows a conventional grasping instrument (50) holding a section of a patient's duodenum (12) while a cutting instrument (60) approaches the duodenum (12). By way of example only, grasping instrument (50) may comprise an ENDOPATH® endoscopic grasping instrument by Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. of Cincinnati, Ohio and/or any other suitable kind of grasping instrument. By way of further example only, cutting instrument (60) may comprise an ultrasonic surgical instrument such as the HARMONIC ACE® shears by Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. of Cincinnati, Ohio and/or any other suitable kind of instrument. While grasping instrument (50) holds the duodenum (12), cutting instrument (60) is used to create an enterotomy (70) in the duodenum (12) as shown in FIG. 6B. Grasping instrument (50) is then used to hold the patient's ileum (6) while cutting instrument (60) is used to create an enterotomy (80) in the ileum (6) as shown in FIG. 6C.

After enterotomies (70, 80) have been created, an instrument (200) with a preloaded compression device (100) is introduced as shown in FIG. 6D. While grasping device (50) holds the duodenum (12), instrument (200) is used to insert device (100) through enterotomy (70) as shown in FIG. 6E. As can be seen, second end member (120) of device (100) passes through enterotomy (70) first. Instrument (200) continues to advance into enterotomy (70) to position the entirety of device (100) in the lumen of the duodenum (12), as shown in FIG. 6F. It should be understood that device (100) is in the compressed or collapsed configuration during the entire time that device (100) is inserted through enterotomy (70). It should also be understood that this compressed or collapsed configuration of device (100) may minimize stretching or tearing of enterotomy (70) during passage of device (100) through enterotomy (70).

After device (100) has been fully inserted through enterotomy (70), instrument (200) is retracted from enterotomy (70). During this retraction, hook member (224) remains engaged with bend (139) of resilient member (130). In particular, and as shown in FIG. 6G, instrument (200) is angled during retraction such that first end member (110) of device catches on the interior surface of the duodenum (12); and such that resilient member (130) pivots away from links (112, 114) to enable bend (139) and adjacent portions of arms (132, 136) to pass back out of enterotomy (70) while the rest of device (100) remains in the duodenum (12). With hook member (224) still engaged with bend (139) of resilient member (130), inner member (220) is advanced distally relative to outer sheath (210), to a point where resilient member (130) is eventually positioned distal to opening (214) of sheath (210). Once resilient member (130) clears sheath (210), the resilient bias of resilient member (130) drives arms (132, 136) outwardly, thereby transitioning device (100) to the expanded state as shown in FIG. 6H. Instrument (200) is further manipulated and/or lifted away from the tissue surface to disengage resilient member (130) from hook member (224), and instrument (200) is then retracted as shown in FIG. 6I.

As can be seen in FIGS. 6H-6I, resilient member (130) captures tissue between resilient member (130) and the assembly formed by first end member (110) and links (112, 114). The resilient bias of resilient member (130) toward the assembly formed by first end member (110) and links (112, 114) provides a sustained grip on the tissue. This grip on the tissue assists in maintaining the position of device (100) in the duodenum (12). As can also be seen in FIGS. 6H-6I, the expansion of device (100) in the duodenum (12) holds enterotomy (70) in an open state, which thereby maintains patency through enterotomy (70) as will be described in greater detail below. In the present example, the distance between the exterior of the joint formed by links (112, 122) and the exterior of the joint formed by links (114, 124) is approximately 2.6 cm; while the distance between the interior of the joint formed by links (112, 122) and the interior of the joint formed by links (114, 124) is approximately 1.5 cm. Of course, any other suitable dimensions may be provided.

Once device (100) has been applied to the duodenum (12), another device (100) is applied to the ileum (6) in a similar fashion. In particular, instrument (200) is used to position another device (100) in relation to enterotomy (80), while grasping device (50) holds the ileum (6), as shown in FIG. 6J. This second device (100) is then inserted into enterotomy (80) as shown in FIG. 6K. Instrument (200) is then manipulated to position resilient member (130) outside enterotomy (80) while the rest of device (100) remains within the ileum (6), and the inner member (220) of instrument (200) is advanced distally relative to sheath (210) to enable expansion of device (100) as shown in FIG. 6L. Device (100) is then released from instrument (200), leaving the second device (100) deployed in the ileum (6) as shown in FIG. 6M.

As with device (100) in the duodenum (12), resilient member (130) of device (100) in the ileum (6) captures tissue between resilient member (130) and the assembly formed by first end member (110) and links (112, 114). The resilient bias of resilient member (130) toward the assembly formed by first end member (110) and links (112, 114) provides a sustained grip on the tissue. This grip on the tissue assists in maintaining the position of device (100) in the ileum (6). As can also be seen in FIG. 6M, the expansion of device (100) in the ileum (6) holds enterotomy (80) in an open state, which thereby maintains patency through enterotomy (80) as will be described in greater detail below.

After devices (100) are fully deployed in the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6), devices (100) are urged toward each other as shown in FIG. 6N. This urging continues until the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) come in contact with each other at the regions associated with devices (100), as shown in FIG. 6O. As shown in FIG. 6P, with the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) so positioned, devices (100) are parallel with each other and are positioned such that enterotomies (70, 80) are aligned with each other to form an anastomosis (2). This alignment of devices (100) and enterotomies (70, 80) is promoted by magnets (118, 128) of devices (100). Magnets (118) also secure the positioning of devices (100) in relation to each other. In particular, magnet (118) of the first device (100) is attracted to magnet (118) of the second device (100); while magnet (128) of the first device (100) is attracted to magnet (128) of the second device (100). Magnets (118) thus remain in coaxial alignment with each other and magnets (128) remain in coaxial alignment with each other. The magnetic fields of magnets (118, 128) and the forces generated thereby are sufficient to hold devices (100) in place even as digestion later occurs in the patient. In other words, devices (100) remain in place even during peristalsis in the duodenum (12) and in the ileum (6). By way of example only, magnets (118, 128) may comprise part number D44-N52 from K&J Magnetics of Jamison, Pa. It should also be understood that the forces generated by the magnetic fields of magnets (118, 128) will substantially compress the tissue of the duodenum (12) and ileum (6) that is captured between the devices (100). The ultimate results of such compression will be described in greater detail below.

As noted above, magnets (118, 128) provide alignment of devices (100) and also secure the positions of devices (100) within the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6). It should be understood that devices (100) may include other features, in addition to or in lieu of magnets (118, 128), that promote alignment of devices (100) and secure the positions of devices (100) within the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6). For instance, devices (100) may include complementary nesting features such as projections and pockets, alternating undulations, retractable constant force springs, resilient clips, etc. Other suitable features that may be used to promote alignment of devices (100) and/or secure the positions of devices (100) within the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

It should be understood that the procedure described above may be performed in a minimally invasive fashion, with devices (100), instruments (50, 60, 200), and any other necessary instrumentation being inserted through trocars or small incisions. It should also be recognized that the only enterotomies (70, 80) created in the gastrointestinal tract are joined together to form an anastomosis (2). Thus, there is no need to create any additional enterotomies in order to position any devices or instrumentation; and no need to close any such additional enterotomies.

In the example described above and shown in the FIG. 6 series, devices (100) are oriented such that resilient members (130) are both oriented in the same direction, with both bends (139) pointing proximally. In some other versions, devices (100) are applied at orientations such that resilient members (130) are oriented in opposite directions. For instance, device (100) in the duodenum (12) may be oriented such that bend (139) of resilient member (130) of device (100) applied in the duodenum (12) points proximally; while device (100) in the ileum (6) is oriented such that bend (139) of resilient member (130) of device (100) applied in the ileum (6) points distally.

FIGS. 7A-7E show the site of the anastomosis (2) after devices (100) have been fully deployed. In particular, FIG. 7A shows devices (100), the duodenum (12), and the ileum (6) at the stage shown in FIGS. 60-6P, just after deployment. As shown, tissue (13) of the duodenum (12) and tissue (7) of the ileum (6) is being compressed between devices (100). Over a period of time, the ischemia caused by this compression of tissue (7, 13) eventually results in necrosis of the tissue (7, 13), as shown in FIG. 7B. This necrosis eventually reaches a point where the tissue (7, 13) can no longer structurally support devices (100), such that devices (100) break free from the site of the anastomosis (2) as shown in FIG. 7C. Devices (100) remain held together due to the attraction between magnets (118, 128) and pass into the ileum (6) as shown in FIG. 7D, eventually passing into the bowels and out from the patient with feces. In some instances, some necrosed tissue (7, 13) may remain captured between devices (100). It should be understood that the size of the fluid passageway at the site of the anastomosis (2) may initially be the size of the stretched enterotomies (70, 80) when devices (100) are first applied and secured relative to each other. However, the size of the fluid passageway at the site of the anastomosis (2) is eventually the size of the entire footprint of devices (100) once devices (100) break away from the site of the anastomosis (2).

When devices (100) have left the site of the anastomosis (2), the structural integrity of the anastomosis (2) remains secure due to natural tissue adhesions. In particular, the exterior of the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) may have substantial serosa-to-serosa adhesion at this point, due to the sustained contact between the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6). In addition, the mucosa at the interior of the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) may have remodeled itself to provide a smooth mocuosal transition (90) between the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) at the site of the anastomosis (2), as shown in FIG. 7E. With the anastomosis (2) complete as shown in FIG. 7E, chyme may freely pass from the duodenum (12) to the ileum (6) via the anastomosis (2), without needing to pass through the jejunum (4).

D. Exemplary Variations of Folding Anastomosis Compression Device and Applier Instrument

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary alternative folding anastomosis compression device (300). Device (300) of this example may be used as an alternative to device (100) as described above. Device (300) of this example comprises a first end member (310), a second end member (320), a set of links (312, 314, 322, 324), and a resilient member (330). A first magnet (318) is disposed in first end member (310) while a second magnet (328) is disposed in second end member (320). Links (312, 314) are pivotally coupled with first end member (310) by pins (340). Similarly, links (322, 324) are pivotally coupled with second end member (320) by pins (340). Link (312) is coupled with link (322) by a pin (340); while link (314) is coupled with link (324) by a pin (340). It should be understood that the pivotal couplings provided by pins (340) enable links (312, 314, 322, 324) to pivot, thereby enabling device (300) to transition between an expanded configuration and a compressed or collapsed configuration, similar to device (100) described above. When device (300) is in the expanded configuration, links (312, 314, 322, 324) define a diamond-shaped opening. In the present example, device (300) is configured such that device (300) may fit through a conventional trocar (e.g., a 12 mm trocar) when device (300) is in the compressed state. Various suitable dimensions and other structural configurations that may be used for device (300) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Resilient member (330) of the present example comprises a wire formed of resilient material. By way of example only, resilient member (330) may be formed of nitinol and/or any other suitable material(s). As best seen in FIGS. 9-10, resilient member (330) defines a first arm (332) having a first tip region (334), a second arm (336) having a second tip region (338), and a coil bend (339) separating first arm (332) from second arm (336). First tip region (334) is joined to the remainder of first arm (332) by a coil bend (333), such that first tip region (334) is generally parallel with first arm (332). As best seen in FIGS. 11-12, link (312) defines a recess (350) that is configured to receive coil bend (333) and first tip region (334). Link (312) also defines a boss (352) that is configured to restrict movement of arm (352) and/or first tip region (334). It should be understood that link (314) may include similar features. Second tip region (338) is joined to the remainder of second arm (336) by a coil bend (337), such that second tip region (338) is generally parallel with second arm (336). Coil bend (339) is configured such that arms (332, 336) together define an angle of approximately 45° when device (300) is in the expanded configuration. Of course, the various regions of resilient member (330) may define any other suitable angles.

Resilient member (330) is configured to resiliently bias device (300) to the expanded configuration. In particular, coil bends (333, 337) and tip regions (334, 338) bear outwardly on their associated links (312, 314). In some versions, resilient member (330) is resiliently biased to assume a straight configuration where arms (332, 336) would together define an angle of approximately 180°. Thus, resilient member (330) may remain stressed when device (300) is in the expanded configuration. In some other versions, resilient member (330) is resiliently biased to assume a configuration where arms (332, 336) would together define an obtuse angle, an angle of approximately 90°, or an acute angle. It should be understood that, as links (312, 314) are resiliently biased outwardly by coil bends (333, 337) and tip regions (334, 338) bearing directly on links (312, 314), links (312, 314) will also drive links (322, 324) outwardly due to the coupling via pins (340). Resilient member (330) will thus indirectly drive links (322, 324) outwardly via links (312, 314). As with resilient member (130) described above, resilient member (330) of the present example may be engaged by an applier instrument (200), which may hold device (300) in a compressed configuration while device (300) is being applied at an anastomosis site.

Resilient member (330) of the present example is also configured to flex at coil bends (333, 337). However, resilient member (330) is configured to bias arms (332, 336) such that coil bend (339) is biased toward first end member (310). In other words, resilient member (330) is biased toward a position where arms (332, 336) are oriented generally parallel with links (312, 314, 322, 324) as shown in FIGS. 8 and 11. The flexibility of resilient member (330) at coil bends (333, 337) enables coil bend (339) and arms (332, 336) to be deflected away from links (312, 314) as shown in FIG. 12. Such deflection may facilitate coupling of resilient member (330) with instrument (200). Such deflection may also facilitate coupling of resilient member (330) with tissue adjacent to an enterotomy as described above.

It should be understood from the foregoing that resilient member (330) is configured to provide a resilient bias along at least two different paths. One such path is along a plane that is parallel to a plane defined by the upper surfaces of links (312, 314, 322, 324). This bias urges device (300) to the expanded configuration. Put another way, the path of this bias is along the path traveled by links (312, 314, 322, 324) during the transition between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration. The other path of resilient bias is along a plane that is perpendicular to the plane defined by the upper surfaces of links (312, 314, 322, 324). This bias urges resilient member (330) to a position where bend (339) and arms (332, 336) are oriented along a plane that is substantially parallel to a plane defined by the upper surfaces of links (312, 314, 322, 324). Put another way, the path of this bias is perpendicular to the path traveled by links (312, 314, 322, 324) during the transition between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration. In some other versions, more than one resilient member (330) is used to provide the biases along these different paths. It should also be understood that another resilient member (330) may be secured to links (322, 324).

As yet another merely illustrative variation, one or more components of devices (100, 300) may be configured to biodegrade to facilitate passage of device (100, 300) through the gastrointestinal tract after the anastomosis (2) has been sufficiently formed. In some such versions, the biodegradability promotes collapse of device (100, 300) to a configuration similar to the compressed configuration described above (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3C and 8). By way of example only, resilient member (130, 330) may be configured to biodegrade or at least lose its resilience, such that device (100, 300) may freely collapse. As another example, device (100, 300) may include a non-biodegradable second resilient member (not shown) that is configured to bias device (100, 300) to a collapsed state. Such a second resilient member may have a lower spring constant than resilient member (130, 330), such that resilient member (130, 330) provides a stronger bias toward the expanded state while resilient member (130, 330) remains intact. Once resilient member (130, 330) biodegrades, its bias is eventually overcome by the bias of the second resilient member, which urges device (100, 300) to the collapsed state. Of course, the second resilient member need not necessarily be non-biodegradable (e.g., the second resilient member may simply take longer to degrade than resilient member (130, 330), etc.). Still other suitable ways in which biodegradability may be incorporated into devices (100, 300) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

FIG. 13 shows an exemplary instrument (400) that may be used to apply device (100, 300) to an anastomosis site. Instrument (400) of this example may be used as an alternative to device (200) as described above. Instrument (400) of this example comprises an outer sheath (410), an inner member (420), and a tip member (440). Outer sheath (410) has an angled distal end (412) that defines an opening (not shown) similar to opening (214) described above. Inner member (420) is slidably disposed in outer sheath (410). Inner member (420) has a distal end (422) that is configured to selectively extend from or retract from the opening of outer sheath (410) as inner member (420) is translated relative to sheath (410). Distal end (422) includes a proximally projecting hook member (424) that is configured to engage bend (139) or coil bend (330) of resilient member (130, 330). The tip (426) of distal end (422) is rounded such that tip (426) is atraumatic in the present example.

As described above with respect to hook member (224), hook member (424) is configured to engage bend (139) or coil bend (339) of resilient member (130, 330) when inner member (420) is advanced to a distal position where distal end (422) extends from the opening of outer sheath (410). When inner member (420) is thereafter retracted relative to outer sheath (410), hook member (424) draws bend (139) or coil bend (339) and adjacent portions of arms (132, 136, 332, 336) into the opening of sheath (410), such that bend (139) or coil bend (339) and adjacent portions of arms (132, 136, 332, 336) are disposed in the interior of sheath (410). The inner sidewalls of sheath (410) that define the opening contact arms (132, 136, 332, 336) and prevent arms (132, 136, 332, 336) from pivoting outwardly. Sheath (410) and inner member (420) thus cooperate to hold device (100, 300) in the compressed configuration while inner member (420) is in a retracted position. As described above, this positioning may be maintained until device (100, 300) is suitably positioned within a bodily lumen (e.g., duodenum, jejunum, ileum, etc.), at which point inner member (420) may be advanced distally relative to sheath (410) to release device (100, 300) at the anastomosis site.

As shown in FIGS. 13-14, tip member (440) of the present example includes an angled tip portion (442) and an associated bend (444). Tip portion (442) terminates in an arcuate edge (446). Bend (444) is angled such that tip portion (442) projects proximally. In some versions, bend (444) defines an acute angle. In some other versions, bend (444) defines an angle of approximately 45°. Alternatively, any other suitable angle may be used. Tip member (440) of this example is configured to create and/or stretch an enterotomy to facilitate deployment of device (100, 300) in the gastrointestinal tract. In the present example, tip member (440) is coupled with an energy source (450). In some versions, energy source (450) comprises a piezoelectric element that is operable to cause tip member (440) to vibrate at ultrasonic frequencies, such that tip member (440) may be selectively activated like an ultrasonic scalpel blade. In some other versions, energy source (450) is operable to activate tip member (440) with monopolar RF energy. With a ground pad engaging the skin of the patient, tip member (440) may thus act as an electrosurgical scalpel blade. Regardless of how tip member (440) is energized, it should be understood that device (100, 300) and other portions of instrument (400) may be isolated from the energization. Of course, energy source (450) is merely optional, and tip member (440) may instead present a passive sharp edge or even be atraumatic (e.g., in versions where tip member (440) is only used to stretch an enterotomy, etc.). By way of example only, the distal face of tip portion (442) may be convex. Bend (444) may also present a convex edge.

In some versions, bend (444) provides a living hinge that enables tip portion (442) to transition from a bent position as shown in FIGS. 13-14 to a substantially straight position where tip portion (442) is substantially aligned with the remainder of tip member (440). In some such versions, tip portion (442) is resiliently biased to assume the bent position shown in FIGS. 13-14. As tip portion (442) is retracted proximally relative to outer sheath (410) and relative to inner member (420), the proximal face of tip portion (442) cams against the distal face of device (100, 300) that is being held by instrument (400), such that tip portion (442) deflects distally and pivots about bend (444). Tip member (440) may continue to retract proximally until tip portion (442) is fully disposed in outer sheath (410). In the present example, the retraction of tip member (440) would not begin until after device (100, 300) has been positioned within the gastrointestinal tract. After tip portion (442) is fully disposed in outer sheath (410), device (100, 300) would then be released from instrument in the gastrointestinal tract. Other suitable ways in which instrument (400) may be operated will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Various suitable features that may be used to provide selective advancement and retraction of inner member (420) and tip member (440) relative to outer sheath (410) will also be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. It should also be understood that inner member (420) may be resiliently biased relative to outer sheath (410). For instance, inner member (420) may be resiliently biased to proximally retract distal end (422) within outer sheath (410). Still other suitable features and configurations for instruments that may be used to apply devices (100, 300) will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

III. Exemplary Anastomosis Compression Device with Axially Biased Member

FIGS. 15-21C show another exemplary anastomosis compression device (500) that may be used to secure an anastomosis between two hollow organs (e.g., between the duodenum and the ileum, etc.). Device (500) of this example comprises a female portion (510) and a male portion (560). Portions (510, 560) are configured to selectively couple together at an anastomosis site and compress tissue adjacent to an anastomosis opening, similar to devices (100, 300) described above. As will be described in greater detail below, female portion (510) is configured to resiliently bias male portion (560) toward female portion (510) to maintain compression of tissue while device (500) is installed at the anastomosis site. Device (500) defines an opening (580) providing a path for fluid communication at the anastomosis site while device (500) resides at the anastomosis site.

As shown in FIGS. 15-18, female portion (510) comprises an assembly formed by a base member (512), a retaining ring (520), a coupler (530), and a wave spring assembly (540). As best seen in FIGS. 21A-21C, base member (512) defines an internal annular shoulder (516). Wave spring assembly (540) is captured between annular shoulder (516) of base member (512) and an annular flange (532) of coupler (530). Wave spring assembly (540) is resiliently biased to urge annular flange (532) away from annular shoulder (516), along an axis shared by flange (532) and shoulder (516). Retaining ring (520) is configured to selectively couple with base member (512) and thereby secure coupler (530) within base member (512).

Coupler (530) further comprises a first set of arms (534) and a second set of arms (536). As best seen in FIGS. 20A-20B, each arm (534) includes an inwardly directed snap-fit barb (535). As best seen in FIG. 18, each arm (536) includes an opening (537). As best seen in FIGS. 17 and 20A-20B, openings (537) are configured to removably receive a cylindraceous retaining member (550). Retaining member (550) is configured to engage the bottom surface (514) of base member (512) and hold coupler (530) in an extended position as shown in FIG. 20A. In the extended position, barbs (535) are substantially spaced away from bottom surface (514), and wave spring assembly (540) is in a substantially stressed, compressed configuration. This configuration is also shown in FIGS. 21A-21B. When retaining member (550) is withdrawn from openings (537), the resilient bias of wave spring assembly (540) drives coupler (530) upwardly into a retracted configuration as shown in FIGS. 20B and 21C. In this configuration, barbs (535) are substantially closer to bottom surface (514).

As best shown in FIGS. 17 and 19, male portion (560) comprises a base (562) having an upwardly extending elliptical flange (564) and an upwardly extending post feature (566). Post feature (566) includes a pair of vertically extending slots (567), a pair of retainer openings (568), and a pair of snap-fit barb openings (569). Slots (567) are configured to accommodate retaining member (550) when male portion (560) is initially coupled with female portion (510) as will be described in greater detail below. Retainer openings (568) are configured to receive cylindraceous retaining members (570), which may be used to position and hold male portion (560). Openings (569) are configured to receive barbs (535) of coupler (530) in a snap-fit fashion, as will also be described in greater detail below.

In an exemplary use of device (500) is shown in FIGS. 21A-21C, in which retaining members (550, 570) have been omitted for clarity. In the exemplary use, an enterotomy (70) is created in the duodenum (12) and an enterotomy (80) is created in the ileum (6), as described above with respect to an exemplary use of device (100). Female portion (510) is then inserted through the enterotomy (70) and oriented such that arms (534, 536) protrude outwardly through the enterotomy (70), as shown in FIG. 21A. Female portion (510) is held in position in the duodenum (12) by retaining member (550). Male portion (560) is inserted through the enterotomy (80) and is oriented such that post feature (566) protrudes outwardly through the enterotomy (80). Male portion (560) is held in position in the ileum (6) by retaining members (570).

With portions (510, 560) positioned as shown in FIG. 21A, portions (510, 560) are then brought toward each other, drawing the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) closer together. Retaining members (570) are removed from openings (568), providing clearance for post feature (566) to enter the interior of coupler (530) to the point where barbs (535) snap into openings (569) as shown in FIG. 21B. At this stage retaining member (550) remains disposed in openings (537). Retaining member (550) is further accommodated within slots (567) of post feature (566).

After reaching the stage shown in FIG. 21B, retaining member (550) is removed from openings (537). This enables wave spring assembly (540) to drive coupler (530) to the retracted position relative to base member (512). With barbs (535) disposed in openings (569) of male member (560), this movement of coupler (530) drives male member (560) toward base member (512). This movement of male ember (560) toward base member (512) compresses the layers of tissue (7, 13) between flange (564) and the bottom surface (514) of base member (512), as shown in FIG. 21C. This compression of tissue (7, 13) provides a secure seal of the anastomosis formed by the fully assembled device (500). Over a period of time, the ischemia caused by this compression of tissue (7, 13) also eventually results in necrosis of the tissue (7, 13), as described above. Device (500) thus eventually breaks free from the anastomosis site and passes through the patient's gastrointestinal tract as described above in the context of device (100).

It should be understood that after device (500) has left the site of the anastomosis (2), the structural integrity of the anastomosis (2) remains secure due to natural tissue adhesions. In particular, the exterior of the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) may have substantial serosa-to-serosa adhesion at this point, due to the sustained contact between the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6). In addition, the mucosa at the interior of the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) may have remodeled itself to provide a smooth mocuosal transition (90) between the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) at the site of the anastomosis (2). While female portion (510) is applied in the duodenum (12) and male portion (560) is applied in the ileum (6) in the above example, it should be understood that female portion (510) may instead be applied in the ileum (6) while male portion (560) is applied in the duodenum (12). Furthermore, device (500) may be applied in other regions of the gastrointestinal tract or in some other portion of the human anatomy. Various other suitable ways in which device (500) may be configured and used will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

IV. Exemplary Anastomosis Compression Device with Corkscrew Insertion Features

FIGS. 22-26 show another exemplary anastomosis compression device (600) that may be used to secure an anastomosis between two hollow organs (e.g., between the duodenum and the ileum, etc.). Device (600) of this example comprises a male portion (610) and a female portion (660). Portions (610, 660) are configured to selectively couple together at an anastomosis site and compress tissue adjacent to an anastomosis opening, similar to devices (100, 300) described above. Male portion (610) comprises a post feature (620) and a corkscrew feature (630). As best seen in FIG. 24, post feature (620) defines a passageway (622) having an internal flat (624). As best seen in FIG. 23, a similar flat (626) is formed in the exterior of post feature (620). Corkscrew feature (630) terminates in an atraumatic free end (632).

Female portion (660) comprises a post feature (680) and a corkscrew feature (690). As best seen in FIG. 25, post feature (680) defines a passageway (682) having an internal flat (684). Corkscrew feature (690) terminates in an atraumatic free end (692). Passageway (682) of female portion (660) is configured to receive post feature (620) of male portion (610). Flat (684) is configured to complement flat (626) to enable insertion of post feature (620) in passageway (682) and to ensure appropriate angular alignment of male portion (610) relative to female portion (660). Corkscrew features (630, 690) are configured such that when portions (610, 660) are fully coupled together, corkscrew features (630, 690) will deform slightly, compressing any tissue captured between opposing faces of corkscrew features (630, 690). Corkscrew features (630, 690) may thus be formed of a resilient material (e.g., a resilient plastic, etc.).

In an exemplary use of device (600), an enterotomy (70) is created in the duodenum (12) and an enterotomy (80) is created in the ileum (6), as described above with respect to an exemplary use of device (100). Male portion (610) is inserted through the enterotomy (70) in the duodenum (12) and is oriented such that post feature (620) protrudes outwardly through the enterotomy (70). During this insertion, male portion (610) may be titled such and rotated such that corkscrew feature (630) passes through the enterotomy (70) progressively, without requiring the enterotomy (70) to be widened further beyond the outer diameter defined by post feature (620). Female portion (660) is inserted through the enterotomy (80) in the ileum (6) and is oriented such that post feature (680) protrudes outwardly through the enterotomy (80). During this insertion, female portion (660) may be titled such and rotated such that corkscrew feature (690) passes through the enterotomy (80) progressively, without requiring the enterotomy (80) to be widened further beyond the outer diameter defined by post feature (680).

With male portion (610) disposed in the duodenum (12) and female portion (660) disposed in the ileum (6) as described above, portions (610, 660) are then brought toward each other, drawing the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) closer together. Male portion (610) is then inserted in passageway (682) of female portion (660), such that portions (610, 660) are coupled together as shown in FIG. 26. At this stage, corkscrew feature (630) bears on the tissue (7) of the duodenum (12) while corkscrew feature (690) bears on the tissue (13) of the ileum (6) in the opposite direction, such that the layers of tissue (7, 13) are compressed between corkscrew features (630, 690). This compression of tissue (7, 13) provides a secure seal of the anastomosis formed by the fully assembled device (600). Over a period of time, the ischemia caused by this compression of tissue (7, 13) also eventually results in necrosis of the tissue (7, 13), as described above. Device (600) thus eventually breaks free from the anastomosis site and passes through the patient's gastrointestinal tract as described above in the context of device (100).

Corkscrew features (630, 690) may be configured such that tissue (7, 13) is compressed along any suitable portion of the length of corkscrew features (630, 690) when portions (610, 660) are fully coupled together. As can also be seen in FIG. 26, the tissue contacting regions of corkscrew features (630, 690) include rounded corners (634, 694), which may prevent corkscrew features (630, 690) from prematurely migrating through the tissue (7, 13).

In some versions, male portion post feature (620) fits snugly in passageway (682), such that portions (610, 660) remain secured together through an interference fitting. In some other versions, portions (610, 660) comprise complementary snap-fit features that secure portions (610, 660) together. In still other versions, portions (610, 660) comprise magnetic features that secure portions (610, 660) together. Still other suitable ways in which portions (610, 660) may be secured together will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

It should be understood that after device (600) has left the site of the anastomosis (2) (e.g., after tissue (7, 13) within the footprint of device (600) has necrosed), the structural integrity of the anastomosis (2) remains secure due to natural tissue adhesions. In particular, the exterior of the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) may have substantial serosa-to-serosa adhesion at this point, due to the sustained contact between the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6). In addition, the mucosa at the interior of the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) may have remodeled itself to provide a smooth mocuosal transition (90) between the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) at the site of the anastomosis (2). While male portion (610) is applied in the duodenum (12) and female portion (660) is applied in the ileum (6) in the above example, it should be understood that male portion (610) may instead be applied in the ileum (6) while female portion (660) is applied in the duodenum (12). Furthermore, device (600) may be applied in other regions of the gastrointestinal tract or in some other portion of the human anatomy. Various other suitable ways in which device (600) may be configured and used will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

V. Exemplary Anastomosis Compression Device with Biased Pivoting Links

FIGS. 27-29 show another exemplary anastomosis compression device (700) that may be used to secure an anastomosis between two hollow organs (e.g., between the duodenum and the ileum, etc.). Device (700) of this example comprises a first plate (710), a second plate (720), and a pair of links (730). Plates (710, 720) define respective rectangular openings (712, 722). Links (730) are positioned at the lateral sides of openings (712, 722). One end of each link (730) is pivotally secured to plate (710) at one end of opening (712) by a pin (740); while the other end of each link (730) is pivotally secured to plate (720) at the opposite end of opening (722) by a pin (740). Spacers (750) are positioned coaxially along each pin (740), to maintain the ends of links (730) in spaced-apart positions.

In the present example, plates (710, 720) are biased toward each other, yet plates (710, 720) may be separated by pivoting links (730) at pins (740) as shown in FIG. 27. In some versions, torsion springs (e.g., positioned about pins (740)) are used to resiliently bias plates (710, 720). In some other versions, magnets are used to magnetically bias plates (710, 720). Other suitable ways in which plates (710, 720) may be biased toward each other will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. It should also be understood that device (700) may include a pull-pin, sliding lock feature, and/or other type of feature that selectively assists in keeping plates (710, 720) separate from each other without the operator having to manually resist the bias of plates (710, 720) during positioning of device (700). Various suitable forms that such a bias resistance feature may take will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

In an exemplary use of device (700), an enterotomy (70) is created in the duodenum (12) and an enterotomy (80) is created in the ileum (6), as described above with respect to an exemplary use of device (100). Plate (710) is inserted through the enterotomy (70) in the duodenum (12) and is oriented such that links (730) protrude outwardly through the enterotomy (70). Plate (720) is inserted through the enterotomy (80) in the ileum (6), with links (730) protruding outwardly through the enterotomy (80). With plate (710) disposed in the duodenum (12) and plate (720) disposed in the ileum (6) as described above, plates (710, 720) are released, allowing the bias of plates (710, 720) to draw the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) closer together. At this stage, plate (710) bears on the tissue (7) of the duodenum (12) while plate (720) bears on the tissue (13) of the ileum (6) in the opposite direction, such that the layers of tissue (7, 13) are compressed between plates (710, 720) as shown in FIG. 29. This compression of tissue (7, 13) provides a secure seal of the anastomosis formed by the fully deployed device (700). Over a period of time, the ischemia caused by this compression of tissue (7, 13) also eventually results in necrosis of the tissue (7, 13), as described above. Device (700) thus eventually breaks free from the anastomosis site and passes through the patient's gastrointestinal tract as described above in the context of device (100).

It should be understood that after device (700) has left the site of the anastomosis (2) (e.g., after tissue (7, 13) within the footprint of device (700) has necrosed), the structural integrity of the anastomosis (2) remains secure due to natural tissue adhesions. In particular, the exterior of the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) may have substantial serosa-to-serosa adhesion at this point, due to the sustained contact between the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6). In addition, the mucosa at the interior of the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) may have remodeled itself to provide a smooth mocuosal transition (90) between the duodenum (12) and the ileum (6) at the site of the anastomosis (2). While plate (710) is applied in the duodenum (12) and plate (720) is applied in the ileum (6) in the above example, it should be understood that plate (710) may instead be applied in the ileum (6) while plate (720) is applied in the duodenum (12). Furthermore, device (700) may be applied in other regions of the gastrointestinal tract or in some other portion of the human anatomy. Various other suitable ways in which device (700) may be configured and used will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

VI. Miscellaneous

It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. that are described herein. The above-described teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. should therefore not be viewed in isolation relative to each other. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein may be combined will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

It should be appreciated that any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

Versions of the devices described above may have application in conventional medical treatments and procedures conducted by a medical professional, as well as application in robotic-assisted medical treatments and procedures. By way of example only, various teachings herein may be readily incorporated into a robotic surgical system such as the DAVINCI™ system by Intuitive Surgical, Inc., of Sunnyvale, Calif.

Versions described above may be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. Versions may, in either or both cases, be reconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning may include any combination of the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement of particular pieces, and subsequent reassembly. In particular, some versions of the device may be disassembled, and any number of the particular pieces or parts of the device may be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning and/or replacement of particular parts, some versions of the device may be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility, or by a user immediately prior to a procedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a device may utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the present application.

By way of example only, versions described herein may be sterilized before and/or after a procedure. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and device may then be placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation may kill bacteria on the device and in the container. The sterilized device may then be stored in the sterile container for later use. A device may also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, or steam.

Having shown and described various embodiments of the present invention, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may be accomplished by appropriate modifications by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. Several of such potential modifications have been mentioned, and others will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For instance, the examples, embodiments, geometrics, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps, and the like discussed above are illustrative and are not required. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be considered in terms of the following claims and is understood not to be limited to the details of structure and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings. 

1-19. (canceled)
 20. A method of creating an anastomosis, comprising: (a) forming a first opening in a first hollow organ; (b) forming a second opening in a second hollow organ; (c) inserting a first compression device in the first opening; (d) securing a first resilient feature of the first compression device to tissue adjacent to the first opening, wherein the secured first resilient feature is positioned on the exterior of the first hollow organ; (e) inserting a second compression device in the second opening; (f) securing a second resilient feature of the second compression device to tissue adjacent to the second opening, wherein the secured second resilient feature is positioned on the exterior of the second hollow organ; (g) moving the first and second hollow organs toward each other to align the first and second compression devices with each other; and (h) securing the positions of the first and second compression devices relative to each other, wherein a layer of tissue of the first hollow organ and a layer of tissue of the second hollow organ are compressed in apposition between the secured first and second compression devices.
 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the first and second compression devices respectively include a first upper surface and a second upper surface, and the method further comprises: (a) biasing the first resilient feature toward the first upper surface along a first transverse plane in order to capture the tissue adjacent to the first opening, wherein the first transverse plane is generally transverse to the first upper surface; and (b) biasing the second resilient feature toward the second upper surface along a second transverse plane in order to capture the tissue adjacent to the second opening, wherein the second transverse plane is generally transverse to the second upper surface.
 22. The method of claim 21, further comprising: (a) urging the first resilient feature away from the first upper surface along the first transverse plane to define a first deflection angle between the first resilient feature and the first upper surface; (b) receiving the tissue within the first deflection angle between the first resilient feature and the first upper surface; (c) urging the second resilient feature away from the second upper surface along the second transverse plane to define a second deflection angle between the second resilient feature and the second upper surface; and (d) receiving the tissue within the second deflection angle between the second resilient feature and the second upper surface.
 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the first deflection angle is selected from the group consisting of a first acute angle, a first right angle, and a first obtuse angle, and wherein the second deflection angle is selected from the group consisting of a second acute angle, a second right angle, and a second obtuse angle.
 24. The method of claim 21, wherein the first compression device includes a third resilient feature and a third upper surface, and the method further comprises: (a) biasing the third resilient feature toward the third upper surface along a third transverse plane in order to capture the tissue adjacent to the first opening, wherein the third transverse plane is generally transverse to the third upper surface; (b) urging the first resilient feature away from the first upper surface along the first transverse plane to define a first deflection angle between the first resilient feature and the first upper surface; (c) receiving the tissue within the first deflection angle between the first resilient feature and the first upper surface; (d) urging the third resilient feature away from the third upper surface along the third transverse plane to define a third deflection angle between the third resilient feature and the third upper surface; (e) receiving the tissue within the third deflection angle between the third resilient feature and the third upper surface; and (f) securing the third resilient feature of the first compression device to tissue adjacent to the first opening, wherein the secured third resilient feature is positioned on the exterior of the first hollow organ.
 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the first deflection angle is selected from the group consisting of a first acute angle, a first right angle, and a first obtuse angle, and wherein the third deflection angle is selected from the group consisting of a third acute angle, a third right angle, and a third obtuse angle.
 26. The method of claim 24, wherein the first transverse plane is aligned with the third transverse plane and the third resilient feature is positioned relative to the first resilient feature such that the third resilient feature mirrors the first resilient feature, and securing the first resilient feature of the first compression device to tissue adjacent to the first opening and securing the third resilient feature of the first compression device to tissue adjacent to the first opening further includes securing the first and third resilient features respectively to a pair of opposing portions of the tissue positioned opposite of each other about the first opening in order to maintain a position of the first compression device relative to the first opening.
 27. The method of claim 21, wherein the first resilient feature includes a first pair of arms projecting toward each other and resiliently biased relative to each other, wherein the second resilient feature includes a second pair of arms projecting toward each other and resiliently biased relative to each other, and wherein the method further includes: (a) biasing the first compression device toward a first expanded configuration via the first pair of arms to define a first device opening; and (b) biasing the second compression device toward a second expanded configuration via the second pair of arms to define a second device opening.
 28. The method of claim 27, further comprising: (a) selectively directing the first compression device to a first collapsed configuration so as to close the first device opening for insertion through the first opening in the first hollow organ; and (b) selectively directing the second compression device to a second collapsed configuration so as to close the second device opening for insertion through the second opening in the second hollow organ.
 29. The method of claim 28, wherein each of the first pair of arms is pivotally mounted relative to the first upper surface about a first axis, wherein each of the second pair of arms is respectively pivotally mounted relative to the second upper surface about a second axis, wherein the method further comprises: (a) pivoting the first pair of arms about the first pair of axes along a first plane, respectively, in order to move the first compression device between the expanded and collapsed configurations; and (b) pivoting the second pair of arms about the second pair of axes along a second plane, respectively, in order to move the second compression device between the expanded and collapsed configurations.
 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the first plane is a first parallel plane that is generally parallel to the first upper surface when the first resilient feature is biased thereagainst, and wherein the second plane is a second parallel plane that is generally parallel to the second upper surface when the second resilient feature biased thereagainst.
 31. The method of claim 30, further comprising: (a) biasing the first pair of arms relative to each other about each of the first respective axes at a first expanded angle in the first expanded configuration, wherein the first expanded angle is selected from the group consisting of a first acute angle, a first approximately 90 degree angle, and a first obtuse angle; and (b) biasing the second pair of arms relative to each other about each of the second respective axes at a second expanded angle in the second expanded configuration, wherein the second expanded angle is selected from the group consisting of a second acute angle, a second approximately 90 degree angle, and second obtuse angle.
 32. The method of claim 27, wherein biasing the first compression device toward the first expanded configuration further includes biasing the first compression device along a first plane that is transverse to the first transverse plane, and wherein biasing the second compression device toward the second expanded configuration further includes biasing the second compression device along a second plane that is transverse to the second transverse plane.
 33. The method of claim 32, further comprising: (a) simultaneously biasing the first resilient feature in the first plane and the first transverse plane; and (b) simultaneously biasing the second resilient feature in the second plane and the second transverse plane.
 34. A method of creating an anastomosis with a compression device, wherein the compression device includes a first upper surface and a first resilient feature, wherein the first resilient feature is biased toward the first upper surface along a first transverse plane that is generally transverse to the first upper surface, wherein the first compression device is biased via the first resilient feature from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration, the method comprising: (a) inserting the compression device in an opening of a first hollow organ in the collapsed configuration; (b) urging the first resilient feature away from the first upper surface along the first transverse plane to define a first deflection angle between the first resilient feature and the first upper surface; (c) receiving the tissue within the first deflection angle between the first resilient feature and the first upper surface; (d) capturing tissue between the first upper surface and the first resilient feature; and (e) securing the first resilient feature of the compression device to tissue adjacent to the opening, wherein the secured first resilient feature is positioned on the exterior of the first hollow organ.
 35. The method of claim 34, wherein the compression device includes a second resilient feature and a second upper surface, wherein the second resilient feature is biased toward the second upper surface along a second transverse plane that is generally transverse to the second upper surface, wherein the first compression device is further biased via the second resilient feature from the collapsed configuration to the expanded configuration, and the method further comprises: (a) urging the second resilient feature away from the second upper surface along the second transverse plane to define a second deflection angle between the second resilient feature and the second upper surface; (b) receiving the tissue within the second deflection angle between the second resilient feature and the second upper surface; (c) capturing tissue between the second upper surface and the second resilient feature; and (d) securing the second resilient feature of the compression device to tissue adjacent to the opening, wherein the secured resilient feature is positioned on the exterior of the hollow organ.
 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the first deflection angle is selected from the group consisting of a first acute angle, a first right angle, and a first obtuse angle, and wherein the second deflection angle is selected from the group consisting of a second acute angle, a second right angle, and a second obtuse angle.
 37. The method of claim 35, wherein the first transverse plane is aligned with the second transverse plane and the second resilient feature is positioned relative to the first resilient feature such that the second resilient feature mirrors the first resilient feature, and securing the first resilient feature of the compression device to tissue adjacent to the opening and securing the second resilient feature of the compression device to tissue adjacent to the opening further includes securing the first and second resilient features respectively to a pair of opposing portions of the tissue positioned opposite of each other about the opening in order to maintain a position of the compression device relative to the opening.
 38. A method of creating an anastomosis with a compression device, wherein the compression device includes an upper surface and a resilient feature, wherein the resilient feature is biased toward the upper surface along a transverse plane that is generally transverse to the upper surface, wherein the resilient feature includes a pair of arms projecting toward each other and resiliently biased relative to each other, wherein each of the pair of arms is pivotally mounted relative to the upper surface about a pair of respective axes, and wherein the pair of arms are biased about the pair of axes along a parallel plane from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration, wherein the parallel plane is generally parallel to the upper surface when the resilient feature is biased thereagainst, the method comprising: (a) inserting the compression device in an opening of a first hollow organ in the collapsed configuration; (b) urging the resilient feature along the transverse plane and away from the upper surface; (c) capturing tissue between the upper surface and the resilient feature; and (d) pivoting the pair of arms about the pair of axes along the parallel plane, respectively, in order to move the compression device from the collapsed configuration to the expanded configuration.
 39. The method of claim 38, further comprising simultaneously biasing the resilient feature in the parallel plane and the transverse plane. 